I regularly attend meditation sessions with the Samatha Trust in London, and I have spent a weekend at their centre in Wales.

They also have an active centre in Manchester, I understand.

The Samatha Trust is mainly concerned with the teaching and practice of Samatha meditation (no surprises there, then ) To that end they don't say much about Buddhism to begin with, they just teach calm abiding meditation in a secular way.

The group that I attend includes chanting, metta practice and some sutta study. Several of our members have been regularly attending for up to ten years. The teachers are all long-term experienced meditators, and they are always ready to help our practice with one-to-one discussion.

It's all Therevada-based, as the Samatha Trust was established in the UK by a Thai Buddhist ex-monk who travelled to London in the 1950's, and taught mediation in London and Oxford.

In summary, in response to your question "Are they any good?", I would say "Yes, without a doubt".

Of course, it depends what you are looking for. If you are seeking Vipassana or instant enlightenment or yogic flying, you are sure to be disappointed. If you are looking for a sincere and open group for developing meditation practice, try them.

Hope this helps... I would be very interested to hear how you get on, and whether you agree my assessment, or not.

Hi Puppha,I am also about to book a weekend with them in Wales. I have recently started attending a weekly class and really rate it. The teacher knows his stuff and all seems coolio at the moment.Hope it goes well for you.

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